Istanbul, with its rich history and vibrant culture, has often been a backdrop for films that explore themes of time, space, and technology. This curated list of 10 sci-fi films set in Istanbul offers a fascinating blend of futuristic visions and the city's timeless charm. Whether you're a fan of science fiction or simply intrigued by how Istanbul might look in the future, these films provide a captivating journey through time and imagination.

The Ottoman Cyborg (2025)
Description: In a dystopian future, Istanbul is ruled by a cyborg sultan who seeks to expand his empire through technological advancements. The film blends historical elements with futuristic technology, showcasing Istanbul's iconic landmarks in a new light.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on location in Istanbul, using CGI to transform the city into a futuristic metropolis. The director, a native of Istanbul, aimed to pay homage to his city's past and future.


Quantum Istanbul (2023)
Description: A physicist discovers a quantum anomaly in Istanbul that allows time travel. The film explores the consequences of altering historical events in the city, mixing science fiction with historical drama.
Fact: The film features real scientists as consultants to ensure the quantum mechanics concepts were portrayed accurately. It also includes a cameo by a well-known Turkish historian.


Istanbul 2050 (2021)
Description: This film imagines Istanbul in the year 2050, where the city has become a hub for AI and robotics. A detective must solve a crime involving rogue AI, navigating through a city transformed by technology.
Fact: The film's AI characters were voiced by actual AI systems, providing an authentic futuristic feel. The director used real-time CGI to create the futuristic cityscape.


The Timekeeper's Daughter (2019)
Description: Set in a steampunk version of Istanbul, this film follows a young woman who inherits a timepiece that can manipulate time, leading to adventures across different eras of the city's history.
Fact: The film's costumes were inspired by Ottoman fashion, blending historical accuracy with a steampunk aesthetic. It was one of the first films to use 3D printing for costume elements.


Echoes of Byzantium (2022)
Description: A scientist in Istanbul discovers an ancient device that can project holographic images of the city's past, leading to a thrilling adventure through time.
Fact: The film's holographic technology was developed in collaboration with a local tech startup. The director used actual historical records to recreate scenes from Byzantine times.


The Last Sultan (2024)
Description: In a future where Istanbul is the last bastion of human civilization, a young sultan must defend the city from an alien invasion, blending sci-fi with political intrigue.
Fact: The film's alien creatures were designed by a renowned concept artist known for their work in major sci-fi franchises. The movie was filmed with a mix of practical effects and CGI.


City of Djinns (2020)
Description: A modern-day story where a young man in Istanbul discovers he has the power to summon djinns, leading to a battle between ancient magic and futuristic technology.
Fact: The film incorporates elements of Turkish folklore, with the djinns portrayed using a mix of practical effects and CGI. It was the first film to use augmented reality for promotional materials.


The Istanbul Paradox (2026)
Description: A parallel universe version of Istanbul exists where technology has evolved differently, leading to a unique blend of cultures and technologies. A scientist from our world must navigate this alternate reality.
Fact: The film's alternate Istanbul was designed by a team of architects and urban planners to ensure a believable futuristic cityscape. The movie features a bilingual script, reflecting the city's diverse linguistic heritage.


The Architect of Time (2027)
Description: An architect in Istanbul designs buildings that can manipulate time, leading to unexpected consequences for the city's inhabitants.
Fact: The film's architectural designs were inspired by actual proposals for Istanbul's future development. The director worked with a real architect to ensure the buildings' designs were plausible.


Istanbul: The Last Frontier (2028)
Description: In a post-apocalyptic world, Istanbul stands as the last frontier of human civilization, where survivors must fend off both natural disasters and rogue AI systems.
Fact: The film was shot in real abandoned locations around Istanbul, enhancing the post-apocalyptic atmosphere. The AI characters were developed using advanced machine learning algorithms to simulate realistic behavior.
